linear
LIN-ee-er
/ˈlɪn.i.ər/
Arranged in or extending along a straight or nearly straight line; progressing from one stage to another in a single series of steps.
Suggests a direct, predictable path without deviations or loops.
The story behind the word. Simply from 'linea', which originally referred to a linen thread. A 'linear' path is as straight as a pulled thread of linen.
Word relationships
- direct: Direct means without stopping; linear means following a line.
- nonlinear: Nonlinear means not following a straight line or direct sequence.
- cyclical: Cyclical means happening in cycles or circles.
Commonly confused with
- sequential: Sequential means one after another; linear means following a straight, non-branching path.
Word family
- line (noun): A long, narrow mark or band.
- linearly (adverb): In a linear manner.
Collocations
- linear progression
- linear relationship
- linear thinking
Example sentences
- "We often think of history as a linear progression toward 'progress', but it is often much more circular." History
- "A linear equation produces a straight line when plotted on a graph." Mathematics
Memory hook
It has the word 'LINE' right in it. Straight as a line.
When not to use
Don't use for complex, cyclical, or branching processes.
Fun facts
- Linear B is an ancient script used for writing Mycenaean Greek, the earliest attested form of Greek.
Related words
Explore more words
straightforward, gradual, tandem, align, continuous, analytical
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